Air cleaner assemblies and methods of use

ABSTRACT

An air cleaner assembly is disclosed. In one aspect, the air cleaner assembly includes a housing defining an inlet and an outlet, and including an access opening between the inlet and outlet. The air cleaner also includes a filter cartridge received within the housing and covering the access opening. The air cleaner also includes a lock mechanism. The lock mechanism is movable between an unlocked position in which the filter cartridge can be installed and removed from the housing and a locked position in which the filter cartridge is secured within the housing. The filter cartridge and lock mechanism include interacting features allowing the lock mechanism to be moved from the unlocked position to the locked position only when the filter cartridge is installed within the housing.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application of U.S. Ser. No.17/065,145, filed Oct. 7, 2020. U.S. Ser. No. 17/065,145 is acontinuation of U.S. Ser. No. 16/000,629, filed Jun. 5, 2018, now U.S.Pat. No. 10,864,469 issued Dec. 15, 2020. U.S. Ser. No. 16/000,629claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Applications 62/584,552, filedNov. 10, 2017; and 62/515,284, filed Jun. 5, 2017. A claim of priorityis made to each of the above referenced applications. The entirety ofthe above referenced applications are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to filter arrangements, typically for usein filtering air, such as intake air for internal combustion engines,and more particularly relates to filter assemblies that include multiplecomponents arranged in a housing to provide desired filteringcapabilities.

BACKGROUND

Air or other gas filtering is desirable in a number of systems. Atypical application is in the filtration of intake air to internalcombustion engines. Another is in the filtration of crankcaseventilation filter assemblies. Typically, such systems comprise filterassemblies having a serviceable filter cartridge therein. After a periodof use, filter media within a filter housing requires servicing, eitherthrough cleaning or complete replacement. Typically, for an air cleaneror crankcase ventilation filter assembly used with an internalcombustion engine, for example, on a vehicle, the filter media iscontained in a removable and replaceable, i.e. serviceable, component,typically referred as a filter element or cartridge. The filtercartridge is configured to be removably sealed within the air cleaner,in use. Improvements in filter arrangements relating to assembly,serviceability, and/or use are desirable. The filter cartridge can beprovided as a first (e.g., primary) filter cartridge or a second (e.g.,secondary or safety) filter cartridge. The air cleaner assembly cancontain only a first filter cartridge or both a first filter cartridgeand a second filter cartridge.

SUMMARY

An air cleaner assembly is disclosed. In one aspect, the air cleanerassembly includes a housing defining an inlet and an outlet, andincluding an access opening between the inlet and outlet. The aircleaner also includes a filter cartridge received within the housing andcovering the access opening. The air cleaner also includes a lockmechanism. The lock mechanism is movable between an unlocked position inwhich the filter cartridge can be installed and removed from the housingand a locked position in which the filter cartridge is secured withinthe housing. The filter cartridge and lock mechanism include interactingfeatures allowing the lock mechanism to be moved from the unlockedposition to the locked position only when the filter cartridge isinstalled within the housing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will be further explained with reference to theappended Figures, wherein like structure is referred to by like numeralsthroughout the several views, and wherein;

FIG. 1 is a first perspective view of an air cleaner in accordance withan embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of the air cleaner shown in FIG. 1 , witha primary filter cartridge shown as being removed from the housing.

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the air cleaner shown in FIG. 1 , witha mounting structure of a mounting arrangement shown as being removedfrom the housing.

FIG. 2 is a second perspective view of the air cleaner shown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 3 is a side view of the air cleaner shown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of the air cleaner shown in FIG. 1 ,taken along the line 3A-3A in FIG. 3 .

FIG. 3B is an enlarged view of a portion of the air cleaner shown inFIG. 3A.

FIG. 4 is an inlet end view of the air cleaner shown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 5 is an outlet end view of the air cleaner shown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 6 is a top view of the air cleaner shown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view of the air cleaner shown in FIG. 1 ,taken along the line 6A-6A in FIG. 6 .

FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of the air cleaner shown in FIG. 6Awith the filter cartridges removed from the air cleaner.

FIG. 6C is a cross-sectional view of the air cleaner shown in FIG. 1 ,taken along the line 6C-6C in FIG. 6 .

FIG. 6D is an enlarged view of a portion of the air cleaner shown inFIG. 6C.

FIG. 6E is a cross-sectional view of the air cleaner shown in FIG. 1 ,taken along the line 6E-6E in FIG. 6 .

FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the air cleaner shown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the air cleaner shown in FIG.1 .

FIG. 9 is a first perspective view of the housing of the air cleanershown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 10 is a second perspective view of the housing shown in FIG. 10 .

FIG. 11 is a top view of the housing shown in FIG. 10 .

FIG. 11A is a cross-sectional view of the housing shown in FIG. 9 ,taken along the line 11A-11A in FIG. 11 .

FIG. 12 is a first side view of the housing shown in FIG. 10 .

FIG. 13 is a second side view of the housing shown in FIG. 12 .

FIG. 14 is a first perspective view of the outlet assembly of the aircleaner shown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 15 is a second perspective view of the outlet assembly shown inFIG. 14 .

FIG. 16 is an end view of the outlet assembly shown in FIG. 14 .

FIG. 17 is a side view of the outlet assembly shown in FIG. 14 .

FIG. 18 is an end view of the outlet assembly shown in FIG. 14 .

FIG. 18A is a cross-sectional view of the outlet assembly shown in FIG.14 , taken along the line 18A-18A in FIG. 18 .

FIG. 19 is a partially exploded perspective view of the inlet assemblyof the air cleaner shown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 20 is a first perspective view of the inlet assembly shown in FIG.19 .

FIG. 21 is an end view of the inlet assembly shown in FIG. 19 .

FIG. 22 is a side view of the inlet assembly shown in FIG. 19 .

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional side view of the inlet assembly shown inFIG. 19 , taken along the line 23-23 in FIG. 21 .

FIG. 24 is a is a perspective view of the inlet assembly shown in FIG.19 with the precleaner assembly removed.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the inlet assembly shown in FIG. 24with the dust ejector assembly removed.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the dust ejector port of the inletassembly shown in FIG. 19 .

FIG. 27 is a side view of the dust ejector port shown in FIG. 26 .

FIG. 28 is a first perspective view of the dust ejector port clip of theinlet assembly shown in FIG. 19 .

FIG. 29 is a second perspective view of the dust ejector port clip shownin FIG. 28 .

FIG. 30 is a top view of the dust ejector port clip shown in FIG. 28 .

FIG. 31 is an end view of the dust ejector port clip shown in FIG. 28 .

FIG. 32 is a top view of one of the lock mechanisms of the air cleanershown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 32A is a cross-sectional view of the lock mechanism shown in FIG.32 , taken along the line 32A-32A shown in FIG. 32 .

FIG. 33 is a bottom view of the lock mechanism shown in FIG. 32 .

FIG. 34 is a first end view of the lock mechanism shown in FIG. 32 .

FIG. 35 is a second end view of the lock mechanism shown in FIG. 32 .

FIG. 35A is a cross-sectional view of the lock mechanism shown in FIG.32 , taken along the line 35A-35A shown in FIG. 35 .

FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view of the lock mechanism shown in FIG. 32, taken along the line 35-35 shown in FIG. 32 .

FIG. 36 is a top perspective view of the lock mechanism shown in FIG. 32with the cover portion removed.

FIG. 37 is a bottom exploded perspective view of the lock mechanismshown in FIG. 32 .

FIG. 38 is a top exploded perspective view of the lock mechanism shownin FIG. 32 .

FIG. 39 is a top view of an operator part of the lock mechanism shown inFIG. 32 .

FIG. 39A is a cross-sectional view of the operator part shown in FIG. 39, taken along the line 39A-39A in FIG. 39 .

FIG. 39B is a cross-sectional view of the operator part shown in FIG. 39, taken along the line 39B-39B in FIG. 39 .

FIG. 40 is a bottom view of the operator part shown in FIG. 39 .

FIG. 41 is a first end view of the operator part shown in FIG. 39 .

FIG. 42 is a second end view of the operator part shown in FIG. 39 .

FIG. 43 is a side view of the operator part shown in FIG. 39 .

FIG. 44 is a top perspective view of the operator part shown in FIG. 39.

FIG. 45 is a bottom perspective view of the operator part shown in FIG.39 .

FIG. 46 is a top view of a base part of the lock mechanism shown in FIG.32 .

FIG. 46A is a cross-sectional view of the base part shown in FIG. 46 ,taken along the line 46A-46A in FIG. 46 .

FIG. 46B is a cross-sectional view of the base part shown in FIG. 46 ,taken along the line 46B-46B in FIG. 46 .

FIG. 47 is a bottom view of the base part shown in FIG. 46 .

FIG. 48 is a first end view of the base part shown in FIG. 46 .

FIG. 49 is a second end view of the base part shown in FIG. 46 .

FIG. 50 is a side view of the base part shown in FIG. 46 .

FIG. 51 is a top perspective view of the base part shown in FIG. 46 .

FIG. 52 is a bottom perspective view of the base part shown in FIG. 46 .

FIG. 53 is a perspective view of a lock spring of the lock mechanismshown in FIG. 32 .

FIG. 54 is a top view of the lock spring shown in FIG. 53 .

FIG. 55 is a side view of the lock spring shown in FIG. 53 .

FIG. 56 is a top perspective view of a retaining ring of the lockmechanism shown in FIG. 32 .

FIG. 57 is a bottom perspective view of the retaining ring shown in FIG.56 .

FIG. 58 is a top view of the retaining ring shown in FIG. 56 .

FIG. 59 is a side view of the retaining ring shown in FIG. 56 .

FIG. 60 is a perspective view of a primary filter cartridge of the aircleaner shown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 61 is a side view of the filter cartridge shown in FIG. 60 .

FIG. 61A is a perspective view of a representative seal member of thefilter cartridge shown in FIG. 60 .

FIG. 61B is a cross-sectional side view of a first portion of the sealmember shown in FIG. 61A.

FIG. 61C is an enlarged portion of a second portion of the seal membershown in FIG. 61A.

FIG. 62 is a top view of the filter cartridge shown in FIG. 60 .

FIG. 63 is a bottom view of the filter cartridge shown in FIG. 60 .

FIG. 64 is an inlet end view of the filter cartridge shown in FIG. 60 .

FIG. 65 is an outlet end view of the filter cartridge shown in FIG. 60 .

FIG. 66 is a first perspective view of an outer shell of the filtercartridge shown in FIG. 60 .

FIG. 67 is a second perspective view of the outer shell shown in FIG. 66.

FIG. 68 is an inlet end view of the outer shell shown in FIG. 66 .

FIG. 69 is an outlet end view of the outer shell shown in FIG. 66 .

FIG. 70 is a perspective view of a media pack of the filter cartridgeshown in FIG. 60 .

FIG. 71 is a perspective view of a secondary filter cartridge of the aircleaner shown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 72 is an inlet end view of the filter cartridge shown in FIG. 71 .

FIG. 73 is an outlet end view of the filter cartridge shown in FIG. 71 .

FIG. 74 is a side view of the filter cartridge shown in FIG. 71 .

FIG. 75 is a perspective view of a first seal member of the filtercartridge shown in FIG. 60 .

FIG. 76 is a perspective view of a second seal member of the filtercartridge shown in FIG. 60 .

FIG. 77 is a cross-sectional view of the first and second seal membersshown in FIGS. 75 and 76 .

FIG. 78 is a perspective view of a mounting structure of the air cleanershown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 79 is a top view of the mounting structure shown in FIG. 78 .

FIG. 80 is a bottom view of the mounting structure shown in FIG. 78 .

FIG. 81 is a side view of the mounting structure shown in FIG. 78 .

FIG. 82 is an end view of the mounting structure shown in FIG. 78 .

FIG. 83 is an exploded perspective view of the mounting structure shownin FIG. 78 .

FIG. 84 is a perspective view of a first part of the mounting structureshown in FIG. 78 .

FIG. 85 is a top view of the mounting structure first part shown in FIG.84 .

FIG. 86 is a side view of the mounting structure first part shown inFIG. 84 .

FIG. 87 is an end view of the mounting structure first part shown inFIG. 84 .

FIG. 88 is a perspective view of a second part of the mounting structureshown in FIG. 78 .

FIG. 89 is a top view of the mounting structure second part shown inFIG. 84 .

FIG. 90 is a side view of the mounting structure second part shown inFIG. 84 .

FIG. 91 is an end view of the mounting structure second part shown inFIG. 84 .

FIG. 92 is a first perspective view of a mounting arrangement mountingclip of the air cleaner shown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 93 is a second perspective view of the mounting clip shown in FIG.92 .

FIG. 94 is a first end view of the mounting clip shown in FIG. 92 .

FIG. 95 is a second end view of the mounting clip shown in FIG. 92 .

FIG. 96 is a top view of the mounting clip shown in FIG. 92 .

FIG. 97 is a bottom view of the mounting clip shown in FIG. 92 .

FIG. 98 is a side view of the mounting clip shown in FIG. 92 .

FIG. 99 is a perspective view of a spacer module of the air cleanershown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 100 is a second perspective view of the spacer module shown in FIG.99 .

FIG. 101 is a side view of the spacer module shown in FIG. 99 .

FIG. 102 is a front view of the spacer module shown in FIG. 99 .

FIG. 103 is a top view of the spacer module shown in FIG. 99 .

FIG. 104 is a bottom view of the spacer module shown in FIG. 99 .

FIG. 105 is a rear view of the spacer module shown in FIG. 99 .

FIG. 105A is a cross-sectional view of the spacer module shown in FIG.99 , taken along the line 105A-105A in FIG. 105 .

FIG. 106 is a perspective view of the air cleaner shown in FIG. 1 , withthe lock mechanisms in a locked position.

FIG. 107 is a perspective view of the air cleaner shown in FIG. 1 withthe air filter cartridge removed and the lock mechanisms in an unlockedposition.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Herein, example filter assemblies, filter cartridges, features andcomponents therefor are described and depicted. A variety of specificfeatures and components are characterized in detail. Many can be appliedto provide advantage. There is no specific requirement that the variousindividual features and components be applied in an overall assemblywith all of the features and characteristics described, however, inorder to provide for some benefit in accord with the present disclosure.

It is noted that a plurality of embodiments are depicted and described.The embodiments are not meant to be exclusive with respect to featuresdepicted. That is, selected features of one embodiment can be applied inone or more of the other embodiments if desired, to advantage. In manyexamples, the filter assembly depicted is an air cleaner assembly, forexample, used to filter intake air for an internal combustion engine.Additional applications are possible, for example, applications in whichthe filter assembly is a crankcase ventilation filter assembly, in whichthe filter cartridge is used to filter crankcase blowby gases whichinclude, typically, both particulate and liquid contaminant therein.Both type of filter assemblies are generally “gas filter assemblies,”since the carrier stage being filtered is gas (air or crankcaseventilation gases). While the techniques described herein will typicallybe used in application for gas filtration, they can be used in thefiltration of other materials, for example, liquids, if desired.

Air Cleaner General Construction

Referring to FIGS. 1-9 , aspects of an air cleaner 10 in accordance withan embodiment of the invention are presented. As shown, the air cleaner10 includes a housing assembly 12 including a main housing body 20defining within which a removable filter cartridge 100 is disposed. Theair cleaner 10 includes a housing assembly 12 with a housing body 20defining an interior region 20 a within which a primary removable filtercartridge 100 is disposed. The housing assembly 12 further includes anoutlet assembly 40 that is positioned for exit of filtered air. In theembodiment presented, the air outlet assembly 40 defines an interiorregion 40 a within which a secondary removable filter cartridge 200 isdisposed The outlet assembly 40 can be made separately from the housingbody 20 and attached thereto, or it can be integrally constructed as aportion of the housing body 20. The housing assembly 12 further includesan inlet assembly 50 through which air to be filtered enters theassembly 10. The inlet assembly 50 can be made separately from thehousing body 20 and attached thereto, or it can be integrallyconstructed as a portion of the housing 20. In the embodiment disclosed,and as explained in detail later in this section, the housing assembly12 is modular in configuration in which the outlet and inlet assemblies40, 50 are separate assemblies secured to the housing body 20.

The air cleaner 10 can include an access cover 125 to provide access tothe interior region 20 a of the housing body 20, such as for placementand removal of filter cartridges 100, 200. The access cover 125 may be aseparate component or may be an integral feature of another component ofthe air filter cartridge 100, for example integral with thecircumferential shell of the filter cartridge 100. In the embodimentdisclosed herein, the access cover 125 is integral to the air filtercartridge 100. In one aspect of the disclosure, the access cover 125,and thus the filter cartridge 100, are secured to the housing body 20via a pair of connectors or lock mechanisms 90.

In one aspect, the air filter cartridge 100 can be configured such thatit has an axis of symmetry about a plane passing through thelongitudinal axis of the air filter cartridge 100. Such a configurationcan allow for the air filter cartridge 100 to be installed in eitherdirection while still interacting in a satisfactory way with the matingparts of the housing body 20 and lock mechanisms 90.

Housing Body 20

Referring to FIGS. 10-13 , the housing body 20 is shown in isolation. Aspresented, the housing body 20 is unitarily formed as a single componentfrom a polymeric material, such as nylon, polypropylene, or ABS plastic.In one aspect, the housing body 20 extends between a first end 20 a anda second end 20 b and defines and interior region 20 i. The housing body20 can be characterized as having a central portion 22, an inlet portion24, and an outlet portion 26. Although the terms “inlet portion” and“outlet portion” are used herein, it should be understood that, becauseof the configuration of the housing body 20, the inlet portion 24 canserve as the outlet end of the housing body 20 and the outlet portion 26can serve as the inlet portion of the housing body 20. In general, thecentral portion 22 retains the filter cartridge 100, the inlet portion24 secures the air inlet assembly 50 to the housing body 20 and alsosupports one of the lock mechanisms 90, and the outlet portion 26secures the air outlet assembly 40 to the housing body 20 and alsosupports the other lock mechanism 90.

In one aspect, the central portion 22 of the housing body 20 is definedby a sidewall 22 a extending between a first end wall 22 b proximate theinlet portion 24 and a second end wall 22 c proximate the outlet portion26. Each of the first and second end walls 22 b, 22 c respectivelydefine openings 22 d, 22 e through which air can flow through thehousing body 20. The central portion 22 further defines an accessopening 22 f through which the filter cartridge 100 can be installed.The access opening 22 f is also sized such that the outlet assembly 40and the inlet assembly 50 can be inserted through the access opening 22f during assembly of the housing assembly 12. In one aspect, the accessopening 22 f is provided with a grooved structure defining an openchannel 22 g for receiving a seal member, such as an O-ring, such thataccess cover 125 can be adequately sealed against the housing body 20.Referring to FIGS. 106 and 107 , an alternative air cleaner design isshown in which the access opening 22 f has a varying profile with atransversely or radially recessed portion 22 f 1 that can be used toenhance positive location of the filter cartridge 100 during insertion.

The inlet portion 24 of the housing body 20 is shown as being providedwith a circumferential sidewall 24 a with a rectangular shape withrounded ends or corners (e.g. a race track shape). Within the sidewall24 a, a plurality of oppositely arranged and spaced apart apertures 24 bare provided. The apertures 24 b are for receiving cooperatively shapedlatch members of the air inlet assembly 50 to facilitate a snap-fit typeconnection between the housing body 20 and the air inlet assembly 50.The inlet portion 24 is also provided with a mounting structure 24 cproximate the access opening 22 f. The mounting structure 24 c providesa structure to which the lock mechanism 90 can be mounted. As shown, themounting structure 24 c is defined by a pair of spaced apart, parallelL-shaped channel or rib members 24 d extending in a lengthwise directionof the housing body 20. The inlet portion 24 is further provided with acut-out portion 24 e within the sidewall 24 a to facilitate mounting ofa dust ejector in a desired location and orientation, as is explainedlater in this section.

The outlet portion 26 of the housing body 20 is shown as being providedwith a circumferential sidewall 26 a with a rectangular shape withrounded ends or corners (e.g. a race track shape). Within the sidewall26 a, a plurality of oppositely arranged and spaced apart apertures 26 bare provided. The apertures 26 b are for receiving cooperatively shapedlatch members of the air outlet assembly 40 to facilitate a snap-fittype connection between the housing body 20 and the air outlet assembly40. The outlet portion 26 is also provided with a mounting structure 26c proximate the access opening 22 f. The mounting structure 26 cprovides a structure to which the lock mechanism 90 can be mounted. Asshown, the mounting structure 26 c is defined by a pair of spaced apart,parallel L-shaped channel or rib members 26 d extending in a lengthwisedirection of the housing body 20. Although not shown, the outlet portion26 can be further provided with a cut-out portion similar to 24 e withinthe sidewall 26 a to facilitate mounting of a dust ejector in a desiredlocation and orientation where the air cleaner is configured for air toflow from the portion 26 to the portion 24.

Outlet Assembly 40

Referring to FIGS. 14 to 18 , the outlet assembly 40, is shown infurther detail. For the purpose of clarity, the filter cartridge 200 isnot shown as being installed within the outlet assembly at FIGS. 14 to18 . As presented, the outlet assembly 40 includes an outlet body 42 andflow restriction indicator 44. The flow restriction indicator 44 is adial-type gauge that snap-fits into the outlet assembly 40. As shown,the outlet body 42 is defined by a sidewall 42 a extending between afirst end 42 b and a second end 42 c. In one aspect, the sidewall 42 aincludes a contoured portion 42 d for receiving and sealing with aportion of a seal member 204 associated with the secondary filtercartridge 200. The interior of the sidewall 42 a forms the remainingportion of the seal interface with the secondary filter cartridge sealmember 204. The sidewall 42 a is also shown as being provided with latchportions 42 e, each of which having a ramped surface 42 f and a shouldersurface 42 g. The latch portions 42 e interact with the apertures 26 bin the housing body 20 such that a snap-fit connection can be formedbetween the housing assembly 20 and the outlet assembly 40.

The outlet assembly 40 is also shown as being provided with a flangestructure 46 adjoining the first end 42 b of the outlet body sidewall 42a. In one aspect, the flange structure 46 is defined by a first flangeportion 46 a and a second flange portion 46 c that each extendingradially outwardly from the sidewall 42 a. In one aspect, the flangeportions 46 a, 46 c define a mounting surface 46 b on one side of theflange structure 46 and a sealing surface 46 c on an opposite side ofthe flange structure 46.

In the embodiment shown, the sealing surface 46 c of the first flangeportion 46 a is disposed at an angle a1 to a longitudinal axis X of theair cleaner 10 and outlet assembly 40. In one aspect, the angle a1 is anoblique or non-orthogonal angle. In the example shown, the angle a1 is95 degrees. However, other angles are possible, such as angles rangingbetween 90 and 135 degrees, for example 100 degrees. In some examples,the angle a1 is minimized such that the surface area of the sidewall 42a between the flange portions 46 a, 46 c is similarly minimized suchthat debris falling into the interior region 20 i is less able tocollect on the resulting ledge area of the sidewall 42 a, for examplewhen the filter cartridge 100 is being removed. In one aspect, the firstand second flange portions 46 a, 46 c are disposed at an angle a2 withrespect to each other. In the example shown, the angle a2 is greaterthan zero and less than 180 degrees such that the first and secondflange portions 46 a, 46 c are disposed in a non-parallel relationship.In the example shown, the angel a2 is about 152 degrees. Where theoutlet end of the media pack 110 is orthogonal to the longitudinal axisX, the angles a1 and a2 can also be said to be at an oblique angle tothe outlet end 114. As the seal surfaces 132 b, 132 c of the seal member132 can be defined by the angles a1, a2 of the flange portions 46 a, 46c, the seal surfaces 132 b, 132 c can likewise have the angles specifiedabove. Other angles are possible.

When the outlet assembly 40 is inserted through the housing body accessopening 22 f such that the outlet assembly 40 resides within theinterior region 20 i of the housing body 20, the outlet assembly 40 canbe pushed forward towards the housing body outlet portion 26 (or inletportion 24) until the mounting surface 46 b abuts the end wall 22 c ofthe housing body 20. This position is most easily seen in thecross-sectional views of FIGS. 6A and 6B. The end wall 22 c provides apositive stop against the mounting surface 46 b of the first flangeportion 46 a. During this action, the ramped surface 42 f of each of thelatch portions 42 e ride along the interior surface of the sidewall 26 auntil the outlet body 42 is sufficiently inserted for the latch portions42 e to be fully received into the apertures 26 b. At this point, theshoulder surfaces 42 g of the latch portions 42 e lock against an edgeof the apertures 26 b in a snap-fit type of connection, wherein theoutlet housing 42 is locked from further movement by the latch portions42 e and the end wall 22 c.

In one aspect, the second flange portion 46 c adjoins the first flangeportion 46 a to form the seal surface 46 d opposite the mounting surface46 b. The seal surface 46 d provides a surface against which acorrespondingly shaped seal member of the filter cartridge 100 can forma seal. As the first flange portion 46 a and second flange portion 46 care arranged in a non-parallel relationship, the portion 46 e of theseal surface 46 d defined by the first flange portion 46 a is disposedat the angle a2 to the portion 46 f of the seal surface 46 d defined bythe second flange portion 46 c. Accordingly, the seal surface 46 d canbe said to have a compound shape or profile. At the location 46 g of theseal surface 46 d where the first and second seal portions 46 e, 46 fadjoin, the seal surface 46 d is curved such that a smooth transitionexists. Stated another way, the first and second seal portions 46 e, 46f are planar with a curved portion 46 g connecting the portions 46 e, 46f. In some examples, all or part of the seal surface 46 d is curvedrather than being planar. For example, either or both of the first andsecond seal portions 46 e, 46 f can be curved rather than being planar.In the example shown, the first seal portion 46 e represents less thanhalf of the total seal surface 46 d, and thus has a lesser length thanthat of the second seal portion 46 f.

The outlet assembly 40 is also provided with an outlet end 48 defined byan end wall 48 a and an outlet tube 48 b to which a hose or duct can beconnected. The outlet end 48 is also shown as including internalsidewalls or ribs 48 c for interacting with the filter cartridge 200.The outlet end 48 is further shown as also including a sidewall or well48 d for receiving the restriction indicator 44.

One advantage of the presented configuration, due to the disclosedmodular design, is that differently configured outlet assemblies 40 canbe mounted onto the housing body 20 to suit any particular application.For example, the outlet assembly could be provided with a differentlysized or shaped outlet tube or duct, could be provided without arestriction indicator, or could be provided with additional ports forthe installation of electronic sensors. Accordingly, the disclosure isnot necessarily limited to the specific outlet assembly configurationdescribed herein as other or different features may be included.

Inlet Assembly 50

Referring to FIGS. 19-31 , aspects of the inlet assembly 50 are shown ingreater detail. As presented, the inlet assembly 50 includes an inletbody 52, a precleaner assembly 60, and a dust ejection assembly 66. Inone aspect, the precleaner assembly 60 generally is used to cleanselected material or contaminants carried by an air stream into the aircleaner assembly 10 before the air reaches the filter cartridge 100positioned therein. The precleaner 60 generally includes a sidewall 62 abounding an end wall 62 b through which a plurality of cyclonicseparator tubes 64 extend. In the embodiment shown in the drawings, 42separator tubes 64 are provided. More or fewer separator tubes 64 can beprovided.

The inlet body 52 is also shown as including a sidewall 52 a bounding anend wall 52 b. A plurality of receptacles 54 are shown as being providedon and extending through the end wall 52 b. The receptacles 54 arereceived into the outlets of the separator tubes 64 when the precleanerassembly 60 is installed into the inlet body 52, wherein the sidewall 62a slides within the sidewall 52 a. In the example presented, theprecleaner assembly 60 can be secured via a fastener 62 c (e.g. athreaded screw or bolt) extending into a threaded opening 52 c in theend wall 52 b of the inlet body 52.

In operation, contaminants are separated to the outside walls of theseparator tubes 64 and are collected within the interior space definedbetween end walls 62 b, 52 b and the sidewall 52 a and are then ejectedout of the dust ejection port assembly 66. The relatively contaminantfree air passing through the central portions of the separator tubes 64is received by the receptacles 54 where the air can pass through the endwall 52 b and into the interior region 20 i where the air can bereceived by the filter cartridge 100 for further cleaning.

As can be most easily seen at FIGS. 19 and 23-21 , the dust ejectionassembly including a dust ejection port 67 mounted through an opening inthe inlet body sidewall 52 a and a retaining clip 68 securing the dustejection port 67 to the sidewall 52 a. As opposed to typical prior artassemblies in which the dust ejection port is molded into the precleanerassembly or part of the air cleaner housing, the dust ejection assembly66 disclosed herein is removable and can be mounted in multiplelocations, where the air cleaner 10 is provided with multiple openings52 d. The inlet assembly 50 is installed through the access opening 22 fof the housing body 20 in a manner similar to that already described forthe inlet assembly 40. The removability of the dust ejection assembly 66facilitates this assembly process, as insufficient clearance wouldresult if the dust ejection port 67 were non-removable and assemblythrough the access opening 22 f were attempted. Once the inlet assembly50 is installed onto the main body 20, the dust ejection port 67 can beinserted into the opening 52 d in the inlet body 52.

With reference to FIGS. 26-31 , the dust ejection port 67 is defined bya tubular sidewall 67 a that extends to a flange 67 b. During insertionof the dust ejection port 67 into the inlet body opening 52 d in adirection from the outside of the sidewall 52 a towards the interiordefined by the sidewall 52 a, the flange 67 b acts as a stop to preventfurther insertion into the interior. In one aspect, the flange 67 b isprovided with a complementary shape to the profile of the sidewall 52 asuch that a generally flush fit arrangement between the flange 67 b andthe sidewall 52 a exists. In the example shown, both the sidewall 52 a,at the location of opening 52 d, and the flange 67 b are curved.However, where the mounting location of the dust ejection assembly 66 isalong a flat side of the inlet body sidewall 52 a, the flange 67 b canbe planar or flat.

The dust ejection port 67 is further provided with a pair of retainingflanges or ears 67 c that pass through the inlet body opening 52 d whenthe flange 67 b is abutted with the sidewall 52 a. The retaining flanges67 b are received by the retaining clip 68 which includes a sidewall 68a defining an opening 68 b with a narrowed opening area 68 c forreceiving a narrowed neck region of the tubular sidewall 67 a betweenthe flanges 67 b, 67 c of the dust ejection port 67. The narrowedopening area 68 c enables for a snap-fit type attachment between thedust ejection port 67 and the retaining clip 68. Once the dust ejectionport sidewall 67 a is inserted through the opening 52 d, the retainingclip 68 is inserted onto the ejection port sidewall 67 a on the side ofthe inlet body sidewall 52 a opposite of the flange 67 b (i.e. on theinterior side of sidewall 52 a). Once inserted, the retaining clip 68operates against the retaining flanges 67 b to prevent the dust ejectionport 67 from being removed from the inlet body 52. As indicated at FIGS.28 , the clip 68 has a width w1 at the distal end of the clip whichincreases to a width w2 towards the opposite end of the clip 68 to forma ramp-like structure. Thus, as the retaining clip 68 is inserted, theincreasing thickness of the clip 68 acts to bind the ejection port 67 inplace such that the ejection port 67 is axially secured in place withrespect to the sidewall 52 a. A handle or lip member 68 d is provided onthe retaining clip 68 to facilitate manipulation of the retaining clipduring insertion and removal.

Ramped sidewall members or ribs 68 e can also be provided to interactwith the ends of the retaining flanges 67 c to prevent rotation of theejection port 67 with respect to the sidewall 52 a. Preventing rotationis advantageous as loosening of the connection between the retainingclip 68 and the ejection port 67 could occur with such rotation.

In one aspect, the retaining clip sidewall 68 a is provided with acomplementary shape to the profile of the sidewall 52 a such that agenerally flush fit arrangement between the sidewall 68 a and thesidewall 52 a exists. In the example shown, both the sidewall 52 a, atthe location of opening 52 d, and the sidewall 68 a are curved. However,where the mounting location of the dust ejection assembly 66 is along aflat side of the inlet body sidewall 52 a, the sidewall 68 a can beplanar or flat.

The sidewall 52 a of the inlet body 52 is also shown as being providedwith latch portions 52 e, each of which having a ramped surface 52 f anda shoulder surface 52 g. The latch portions 52 e interact with theapertures 24 b in the housing body 20 such that a snap-fit connectioncan be formed between the housing assembly 20 and the inlet assembly 50.

The inlet assembly 50 is also shown as being provided with a flangestructure 56 adjoining the second end 42 c of the outlet body sidewall42 a. In one aspect, the flange structure 56 is defined by a firstflange portion 56 a and a second flange portion 56 c that extendradially outwardly from the sidewall 52 a. In one aspect, the flangeportions 56 a, 56 c define a mounting surface 56 b on one side of theflange structure 56 and a sealing surface 56 c on the opposite side ofthe flange structure 56.

In the embodiment shown, the first flange portion 56 a is disposed at anangle a3 to a longitudinal axis X of the air cleaner 10 and inletassembly 50. In one aspect, the angle a3 is an oblique or non-orthogonalangle. In the example shown, the angle a1 is 5 degrees. However, otherangles are possible, such as angles ranging between 0 and 45 degrees,for example 10 degrees. In one aspect, the first and second flangeportions 56 a, 56 c are disposed at an angle a4 with respect to eachother. In the example shown, the angle a4 is greater than zero and lessthan 180 degrees such that the first and second flange portions 56 a, 56c are disposed in a non-parallel relationship. In the example shown, theangel a4 is about 152 degrees. Other angles are possible.

When the outlet assembly 40 is inserted through the housing body accessopening 22 f such that the inlet assembly 50 resides within the interiorregion 20 i of the housing body 20, the inlet assembly 50 can be pushedforward towards the housing body inlet portion 24 (or inlet portion)until the mounting surface 56 b abuts the end wall 22 b of the housingbody 20. This position is most easily seen in the cross-sectional viewsof FIGS. 8 and 8A. The end wall 22 b provides a positive stop againstthe mounting surface 56 b of the first flange portion 56 a. During thisaction, the ramped surface 52 f of each of the latch portions 52 e ridealong the interior surface of the sidewall 24 a until the inlet body 52is sufficiently inserted for the latch portions 52 e to be fullyreceived into the apertures 24 b. At this point, the shoulder surfaces52 g of the latch portions 52 e lock against an edge of the apertures 24b in a snap-fit type of connection, wherein the inlet housing 52 islocked from further movement by the latch portions 52 e and the end wall22 b.

In one aspect, the flange structure 56 adjoins the first flange portion56 a to form the seal surface 56 d opposite the mounting surface 56 b.The seal surface 56 d provides an axial surface against which acorrespondingly shaped seal member of the filter cartridge 100 can forma seal. Accordingly, the seal surfaces of the seal members can have thesame shape or profile as explained below for the seal surfaces herein.As the first flange portion 56 a and second flange portion 56 c arearranged in a non-parallel relationship, the portion 56 e of the sealsurface 46 d defined by the first flange portion 56 a is disposed at theangle a4 to the portion 56 f of the seal surface 56 d defined by thesecond flange portion 56 c. Accordingly, the seal surface 56 d can besaid to have a compound shape or profile. At the location 56 g of theseal surface 56 d where the first and second seal portions 56 e, 56 fadjoin, the seal surface 56 d is curved such that a smooth transitionexists. Stated another way, the first and second seal portions 56 e, 56f are planar with a curved portion 56 g connecting the portions 56 e, 56f. In some examples, all or part of the seal surface 56 d is curvedrather than being planar. For example, either or both of the first andsecond seal portions 56 e, 56 f can be curved rather than being planar.In the example shown, the first seal portion 56 e represents less thanhalf of the total seal surface 56 d, and thus has a lesser length thanthat of the second seal portion 56 f.

One advantage of the presented configuration, due to the disclosedmodular design, is that differently configured inlet assemblies 50 canbe mounted onto the housing body 20 to suit any particular application.For example, an inlet assembly 50 with no precleaner, an inlet duct, adifferent precleaner design, and/or dust ejection assembly could beprovided. Accordingly, the disclosure is not necessarily limited to thespecific inlet assembly configuration described herein as other ordifferent features may be included.

Filter Cartridge 100

Referring now to FIGS. 60-69 , an exemplary embodiment of filtercartridge 100 of air cleaner assembly 10 is illustrated. The filtercartridge 100 extends between a first end 102 and a second end 104. Inone aspect, the first end 102 can be characterized as the upstream endof the filter cartridge 100 while the second end 104 can becharacterized as the downstream end of the filter cartridge 100. Thefilter cartridge 100 can be considered to be the main or primary filtercartridge, and is used to selectively separate a desired amount ofparticulate or containment material.

Filter cartridge 100 is generally a service part or removable component,such that it is periodically removable and replaceable as desired ornecessary during the lifetime of the air cleaner 10. In particular, whenthe cartridge 100 becomes occluded or otherwise needs to be replaced,the access cover 125 is unlocked from the housing 20, and the occludedfilter 100 is removed by pulling the access cover in a direction R1 awayfrom the housing 20 via a handle 127 associated with the access cover125. After such removal, another filter 100 can be placed in the housing20 by inserting the filter cartridge 100 in an insertion direction I1.In one aspect, the directions I1 and R1 are orthogonal to thelongitudinal axes X, X1 of the filter cartridge 100 and housing 20. Inthe example shown, the access cover 125 is integral to the filtercartridge 100 and thus serves as the previously described access cover125. Similarly, the handle 127 is integrally formed with the accesscover 125. In one aspect, the handle 127 has a length that is a majorityof the length of the media pack 110. As mentioned previously, FIGS. 106and 107 show the filter cartridge 100 that the access opening 22 f canhave a varying profile with a recessed portion 22 f 1. In such anembodiment, the access cover 125 can be formed with a complementaryshape to the access opening 22 f such that the access cover 125 has acontoured shape with a protruding portion 125 a that mates or abuts withthe recessed portion 22 f 1

The filter cartridge 100 generally includes a media pack 110, a shell120 integrally including the access cover 125 and the handle 127, afirst sealing member 130 at the inlet end of the media pack 110, and asecond sealing member 132 at the outlet end of the media pack 110. Thesealing members 130, 132 will generally be made of a relatively flexiblematerial and may be referred to herein as a “flexible sealing member,”and can include an axial or radial sealing member. In one example, thesealing members 130, 132 are provided as injection molded gaskets. Inthe embodiment shown, the sealing members 130, 132 are provided asgaskets with alternating segments of parallel lip seals 134 andopen-faced pocket structures 136, as is described later in this section.The seal members 130, 132 are shown in isolation at FIGS. 75-77 .

In the example shown, the media pack 110 has inlet flow face 112 forreceiving unfiltered air or pre-cleaned air from the precleaner (ifprovided) and an outlet flow face 114 for delivering filtered air. Themedia pack 110 is shown in isolation at FIG. 70 . In the example shown,the media pack 110 has an obround cross-sectional shape. However, othershapes are possible, such as round, oval, and rectangularcross-sectional shapes. In one aspect, the media pack 110 defines anouter perimeter 116 extending between the inlet and outlet flow faces112, 114. In the example shown, the media pack 110 is formed from acoiled media construction, for example a media construction having afluted (typically corrugated) media sheet and a facing media sheet thattogether define parallel flutes to form a fluted or z-filter mediaconstruction. Suitable media constructions for the media pack 110 arediscussed in more detail in the Media Types and Configurations section.

In one aspect, the shell 120 of the filter cartridge 100 is formed froma polymeric material, such as nylon, polypropylene, or ABS plastic. Theshell 120 is shown in isolation at FIGS. 66-69 . In one aspect, theshell 120 defines a perimeter wall 122 that surrounds the outerperimeter 116 of the media pack 110. A grid structure 123 is also shownas being provided with the shell 120 for supporting the outlet flow face114 of the media pack 110. The shell 120 may be secured to the mediapack 110 by an adhesive. The perimeter wall 122 may surround theentirety of the media pack outer perimeter 116, as shown, or surround aportion of the media pack outer perimeter 116. As noted previously, theaccess cover 125 and handle 127 are integrally formed with the shell. Asshown, the access cover 125 includes a main body 125 a that is sized andshaped to mate against and cover the access opening 22 f of the housingbody 20. The main body 125 a defines a sealing surface 125 b againstwhich a seal associated with the housing body 20 can form a seal. In theexample shown, the handle 127 is formed with the access cover 125 suchthat an open space 127 a exists between the handle 127 and the cover 125to allow an operator to grasp the handle 127. The open space 127 a canbe defined as a recess beneath one or both sides of the handle 127 orcan be a completely open space, as shown in the drawings. In the exampleshown, the access cover 125 can be provided with indicia 125 c, such astext and directional arrows, to provide an indication to an operator asto the proper installation orientation of the filter cartridge 100.

In one aspect, first and second seal support flanges 124, 126 extendorthogonally from the perimeter wall 122. The seal support flanges 124,126 respectively provide a support surface for the seal members 130,132. The seal support flanges 124, 126, and thus the supported sealmembers 130, 132, are respectively provided with profiles complementaryto the sealing outlet assembly sealing surface 46 d and the inletassembly sealing surface 56 d. Accordingly, the seal support flange 124defines a support surface 124 a having a first portion 124 b disposed atangle a4 and an adjoining second portion 124 c, wherein the first andsecond portions 124 b, 124 c form the angle a4 between them. The shapeof the support flange 124 imparts similar features onto the seal member130 such that a seal surface 130 a of the seal member 130 has a firstportion 130 b at the angle a3 and an adjoining second portion 130 c atthe angle a4 with respect to the first portion 130 b. In the exampleshown, the media pack inlet flow face 112 is shown as being orthogonalto the longitudinal axis X1 of the filter cartridge 100. Accordingly,the support flange first portion 124 a and the seal first portion 130 bcan be said to form an angle a5 with the plane P1 defining the inletflow face that is equal to the angle a3 minus 90 degrees. As such, theangle a5 in the example shown is 10 degrees.

The seal support flange 126 defines a support surface 126 a having afirst portion 126 b disposed at the angle a1 and an adjoining secondportion 124 c disposed at the angle a2 with respect to the first portion126 b. The shape of the support flange 126 imparts similar features ontothe seal member 132 such that a seal surface 132 a of the seal member132 has a first portion 132 b at the angle a1 and an adjoining secondportion 132 c at the angle a2 with respect to the first portion 132 b.In the example shown, the media pack outlet flow face 114 is shown asbeing orthogonal to the longitudinal axis X1 of the filter cartridge100. Accordingly, the support flange first portion 126 a and the sealfirst portion 132 b can be said to form an angle a6 with the plane P2defining the inlet flow face that is equal to the angle a1 minus 90degrees. As such, the angle a6 in the example shown is 10 degrees. Inone aspect, the seal surfaces 130 a, 132 a can be characterized asdefining axial seal surfaces or axially facing seal surfaces as the faceof the seal surface is more orthogonal than not to the longitudinal axisX1 (i.e. more parallel than not to the end faces of the media pack 110or facing in the same general direction as the media pack end) of thefilter cartridge 100.

The seal members 130, 132 can be provided with various features toenhance sealing. The seal members 130, 132 are shown in isolation atFIGS. 61A-61C, respectively. With reference to FIG. 61B across-sectional view of the seal members 130, 132 is presented. In oneaspect, the seal members 130, 132 are injection molded seals. Aspresented, the seal members 130, 132 include a base member 133 a and apair of seal lips or extensions 133 b, 133 c that together form ac-channel type shape. The base member 133 a and the side 133 d of thelip extension 133 b interfaces with the seal support flanges 124, 126and can be secured to the flanges 124, 126 via an adhesive. The sealmembers 130, 132 can also include a top segment 133 e wherein thec-shaped channel is oriented 90 degrees to the remainder of the sealmember 130, 132. At top segment 133 e, the open side of the channelfaces in the same direction as the lip extension 133 c of the remainingsegment of the seal member 130, 132. This configuration allows for theseal members 130, 132 to be more easily molded onto the inlet and outlethousing assemblies 40, 50. At the location of the top segment 133 e, thedistal ends of each of the lip extensions 133 b, 133 c form the axialseal surface for the seal members 130, 132.

In one aspect, the seal surface first portions 130 b, 132 b form anangle with each as defined by the angles a1 and a3. As shown, this angleis about 20 degrees. In one aspect, the seal surface second portions 130c, 132 c form an angle with each other as defined by the angles a1, a2,a3, and a4. As shown, this angle is about 65 degrees. Other angles arepossible. In some examples, the first portions 130 b, 132 b are planarwhile in others the first portions 130 b, 132 b are curved. In someexamples, the second portions 130 c, 132 c are planar while in othersthe second portions 130 c, 132 c are curved. In some examples, each ofthe first portions 130 b, 132 b and the second portions 130 c, 132 c areplanar with a curved or radiused portion joining the first and secondportions together. In some examples, the first portions 130 b, 132 b areplanar and the second portions 130 c, 132 c are curved. In someexamples, the first portions 130 b, 132 b define a majority of thelength of the seal surfaces and the second portions 130 c, 132 c definea minority of the length of the seal surfaces.

As a result of the seal members 130, 132 being disposed at the anglesa5, a6, the seal members 130, 132 taper towards each other in theinsertion direction I1 and in a direction away from the cover 125 suchthat the seal members 130, 132 are closer to each other at a locationremote from the cover 125 as compared to a location proximate the cover125 (i.e. distance between seal members 130, 132 increases in adirection towards the cover). This tapered configuration allows foreasier installation of the filter cartridge 100 into the interior region20 i of the housing body 20 with less compressive resistance from theseal members 130, 132, as compared to a configuration where the sealmembers 130, 132 oriented entirely parallel to each other and the planeP without any tapering. This advantage is even further achieved by theadditional increased tapering angle presented by the second portions 130c, 132 c which deviates outside of the plane defined by the firstportions 130 b, 132 b (i.e. distance between seals at second portions130 c, 132 c increases at a greater rate than distance between seals atfirst portions 130 b, 132 b in direction towards cover). These featuresallow for the filter cartridge 100 to simultaneously have axial sealswhile being transversely or side-loaded in the insertion direction I1,wherein the seals 130, 132 form a seal with the housing 20 withoutfurther requiring any movement of the filter cartridge 100 within thehousing body 20 along the axis X1 in order to form a seal with thehousing 20.

Another advantage of the disclosed configuration is that the filtercartridge seals against the inlet and outlet housing assemblies 40, 50rather than the housing body 20. Because the seal member 130 forms aseal against the seal surface 56 d of the inlet housing assembly 50 andthe seal member 132 forms a seal against the seal surface 46 d of theoutlet housing assembly 40, it is not necessary for the cover 125 toform a leak-proof seal with the housing body 20 or for the filtercartridge 100 to form a leak-proof seal with the housing body 20.

In one aspect, the filter cartridge 100 is also shown as being providedwith lock interface features 150 at each end. The lock interfacefeatures 150 interact with the locking mechanisms 90 such that thefilter cartridge 100 can be locked in place with respect to the housing20. As shown, the lock interface features 150 include an arcuate ribstructure 152 and a pair of tab structures 154, each of which isintegrally formed on the access cover 125. The structure and function ofthese features are further described in the lock mechanism section.

Filter Cartridge 200

Referring to FIG. 1A, the exemplary air cleaner assembly 10 includes anoptional secondary or safety filter cartridge 200. The safety filtercartridge 200 is shown in isolation at FIGS. 71 to 74 . The safetyfilter 200 is generally positionable between the main filter cartridge100 and the outlet 48 b of the housing 20. In a typical arrangement, thesafely filter 200 is removably positioned within the air cleanerassembly 10 and would also typically be considered to be a servicecomponent that is removable and replaceable, as desired and/ornecessary.

The exemplary embodiment of safety filter 200 includes an outer frame202 that carries a seal member 204 having a pair of parallel lip seals,and generally matches the size and shape of the inner area of thehousing outlet body 42 (e.g. straight segmented portions 42 d togetherwith the straight sides of the interior surface of the sidewall 42 a)and can seal to the outlet body 42, preferably with no gaps. In thisway, the safety filter 200 can be pressed into the housing with afriction fit against the wall of the housing so that no air can reachthe outlet without first going through the safety filter. The safetyfilter 200 can also include filtration media 220, such as pleated media.A handle 206 may also be provided to aid in installing and removing thefilter cartridge 200 from the housing 20 via the access opening 22 f.

Media Types and Configurations

Any type of filter media can be used as the media pack for the filtercartridges 100, 200 in accordance with embodiments of the invention. Forexample, woven and non-woven materials using natural and/or syntheticfibers can be used to form fluted filter media, pleated media, and depthmedia. An exemplary configuration includes fluted filter media, such asa z-filter construction. The term “z-filter construction” as usedherein, is meant to refer to a type of filter construction in whichindividual ones of corrugated, folded or otherwise formed filter flutesare used to define sets of longitudinal, typically parallel, inlet andoutlet filter flutes for fluid flow through the media; the fluid flowingalong the length of the flutes between opposite inlet and outlet flowends (or flow faces) of the media. Some examples of filter media areprovided in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,820,646; 5,772,883; 5,902,364; 5,895,574;6,210,469; 6,190,432; 6,350,296; 6,179,890; 6,235,195; D399,944;D428,128; D396,098; D398,046; and D437,401, each of which isincorporated herein by reference.

One type of z-filter media utilizes two specific media components joinedtogether to form the media construction. The two components include afluted (typically corrugated) media sheet and a facing media sheet. Thefacing media sheet is typically non-corrugated, although it is possiblefor it to also be corrugated (e.g., perpendicular to the flutedirection) as described in U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/543,804,filed Feb. 11, 2004, and published as PCT WO 05/077487 on Aug. 25, 2005,which is incorporated herein by reference.

The fluted media sheet and the facing media sheet are used together todefine media having parallel inlet and outlet flutes. In some instances,the fluted sheet and facing sheet are secured together and are thencoiled as a media strip to form a z-filter media construction. Sucharrangements are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,235,195 and6,179,890, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

In certain other arrangements, some non-coiled sections or strips offluted (typically corrugated) media secured to facing media, are stackedwith one another, to create a filter construction.

Corrugated media is a specific form of fluted media, wherein flutedmedia has individual flutes or ridges (for example formed by corrugatingor folding) extending thereacross. The term “corrugated” is used hereinto refer to structure in media, such as media having a flute structureresulting from passing the media between two corrugation rollers (e.g.,into a nip or bite between two rollers, each of which has surfacefeatures appropriate to cause corrugations in the resulting media).

Serviceable filter element or filter cartridge configurations utilizingz-filter media are sometimes referred to as “straight through flowconfigurations” or by variants thereof. In general, serviceable filterelements or cartridges have an inlet flow end (or face) and an oppositeexit flow end (or face), with flow entering and exiting the filtercartridge in generally the same straight through direction. The term“serviceable” in this context is meant to refer to a media containingfilter cartridge that is periodically removed and replaced from acorresponding fluid (e.g. air) cleaner.

Lock Mechanism 90

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3 , it can be seen that the connectors 90,hereafter referred to as lock mechanisms 90, are provided at each end ofthe filter cartridge 100. As described previously, the filter cartridge100 includes features 150 including arcuate ribs 152 and tab structures154 that are integrally formed with the access cover 125 of the shell120. Each of the tabs 154 is received in a corresponding recess 92 a ofan operator part 92 of the lock mechanism 90. The filter cartridge 100cannot be fully inserted into the housing 20 unless the lock mechanisms90 are rotated into a fully unlocked position such that the recesses 92a align with the tabs 154.

Referring to FIGS. 39-45 , the operator part 92 is shown in furtherdetail. As shown, the operator part 92 includes the aforementionedrecess 92 a, a pair of handle portions 92 b for enabling a user to graspand rotate the operator part 92, a cover portion 92 c, a stem portion 92d extending from the cover portion 92 c, a retaining groove 92 e definedwithin the stem portion 92 d, an arc-shaped rib portion 92 f defining agroove or channel 92 g between the rib portion 92 f and a sidewallportion 92 h of the cover portion 92 c, a pair of recessed areas 92 i atthe location where the rib portion 92 f meets the sidewall portion 92 h,and a central indexing member 92 j extending between the rib portion 92f and the sidewall portion 92 h. The sidewall portion 92 h is also shownas including lead in or ramped portions 92 h at the ends of the of thesidewall portion 92 h to better allow the cover portion 92 c to berotated over the filter cartridge access cover 125.

Referring to FIGS. 46-52 , a base part 94 of the lock mechanism 90 isshown in further detail. As shown, the base part 94 includes a main body94 a within which a central aperture 94 b is defined, a lock springretaining feature 94 c including a pair of apertures 94 f a pair ofapertures 94 g and a central tab 94 h, a pair of arc-shaped rib portions94 d, and a pair of attachment features 94 e for securing the lockmechanism 90 to the housing 20. In one aspect, the attachment features94 e include a pair of L-shaped channels 94 e that receive thecorrespondingly shaped L-shaped rib members 24 d, 26 d on the housingbody 20.

Referring to FIGS. 53 to 55 , a lock spring 96 of the lock mechanism 90is shown in further detail. As shown, the lock spring 96 extends from abase portion 96 a to ramped portions 96 b which in turn extends to tabportions 96 c. The lock spring 96 further includes a latch portion 96 dprojecting from the tab portion 96 c. The latch portion 96 d includes alatch face 96 e for engaging against an edge 92 m of the cover portion92. The lock spring 96 is also shown as being formed with tabs 96 e and96 f for securing the lock spring 96 to the lock spring retainingfeature 94 c of the base part 94. In the example shown, the lock spring96 is cut from a steel sheet (e.g. spring steel) and bent to shape.

Referring to FIGS. 56-59 , a retaining ring 98 of the lock mechanism 90is shown in further detail. The retaining ring 98 includes a main body98 a within which a central aperture 98 b is defined. In the exampleshown, the retaining ring 92 is formed from a metal material, such asspring steel.

In one aspect, the lock spring base portion 94 a is received within thelock spring retaining feature 94 c such the tabs 96 e extend throughopenings 94 f and 94 g and the tab 96 f is retained by the central tab94 h of the base part 94 and such that the ramped portions 96 b extendaway from the base part main body 94 a. FIG. 36 shows the lock spring 96attached to the base portion 94 with the cover 92 removed to better showthe connection between the lock spring 96 and the base portion 94. Thisconfiguration allows the lock spring tab portion 96 c to be deflectablefrom a relaxed or resting position (i.e. the raised position in thedrawings), as shown at position P1 in FIGS. 6E and 32-36 , to adeflected position (i.e. the lowered position in the drawings) towardsthe main body 94 a, as shown at position P2 in FIG. 78 . The operatorpart 92 is mounted to the base part 94 by passing the stem portion 92 dof the operator part 92 through the central aperture 94 b of the basepart 94 such that the operator part cover portion 92 c covers the basepart main body 94 a. In this position, the ribbed portion 94 d of thebase part 94 rests in a groove formed between the operator part ribbedand outer wall 92 h. The two parts are secured together by installingthe retaining ring 98 onto the retaining groove 92 e.

Once the operator and base parts 92, 94 are secured together, theoperator part 92 is rotatable with respect to the base part 94 from anunlocked position to a locked position. In the unlocked position, theoperator part 92 is aligned such that the tab portion 96 c extends intothe recess 92 a in the cover portion 92 c of the operator part 92 andsuch that the latch face 96 f of the locking spring 96 rests against theside edge 92 m of the operator part 92. Due to the interaction betweenthe latch face 96 f and the operator part side edge 92 m, the operatorpart 92 is unable to be rotated out of the unlocked position with thelocking spring 96 in the resting position. In the event that that theoperator part 92 is rotated past this position without a filtercartridge 100 installed, the operator part 92 can be easily rotated backto the unlocked position as the ramped face 96 e will allow the lockingspring latch portion 96 d to easily deflect and slide past the side edge92 f on the operator part 92.

When the filter cartridge 100 is installed into the housing 20, the tabs154 on the access cover 125 contact and deflect the locking spring 96 ofeach of the lock mechanisms 90 in a direction towards the base part 94.This interaction is shown in the schematic presented at FIG. 6E asposition P2. Once the filter cartridge 100 is fully installed, eachlatch portion 96 d is displaced beyond the side edge 92 f therebyallowing the operator part 92 to be rotated towards the locked positionin either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. As the operatorpart 92 is rotated towards the locked position, the ribbed portion 92 fon the operator part 92 slides along the ribbed structure 152 of thefilter cartridge 100. Thus, the ribbed structure 152, which can becharacterized as a connection member, works in conjunction with theoperator part 92 to secure the media pack within the air cleanerhousing. As the filter cartridge 100 is a true side-loaded filtercartridge which does not need to be axially displaced after insertioninto the housing 20 to effectuate a seal, the filter cartridge 100 isconfigured such that at least a portion of the ribbed structure 152extends axially beyond the inlet/outlet flow end of the media pack 110.In the particular example shown, the entirety of the ribbed structure152 is axially beyond the inlet/outlet flow end of the media pack 110.

In the example shown, the locking mechanisms 90 do not directlyeffectuate a seal at seal members 130, 132 in the direction of thelongitudinal axis X. Instead, the seal is formed by an interference fitbetween the individual seals members 130, 132 and the individual sealingsurfaces 46 d, 56 d. The lock mechanisms 90 can be configured to exert acompressive force onto the filter cartridge 100 and thus the sealmembers 130, 132 in the insertion direction. The locking mechanisms 90do operate to lock the filter cartridge 100 in place in self centeringfashion wherein stress is transferred between the lock mechanisms 90 andcover 125 but without imparting a force onto the seal members 130, 132.Thus, even in a configuration where only one of the seal members 130,132 is provided, the lock mechanisms 90 will still function to axiallyalign and fix the filter cartridge 100 to effectuate a single sealwithout the need for the presence of the second seal or any othercomponent on the cartridge or housing to effectuate the seal.

Additionally, the retaining ring 92 is configured such to exert a springforce onto the operator part 92. The operator part 92 is rotated intothe locking position until the rib 92 j of the operator part engageswith a stop member or detent 152 i on the arcuate shaped rib structure152 on the filter cartridge 100 to aid in retaining the operator part 92in the locked position and to provide an installer with tactile feedbackof the locked position. During initial rotation of the operator part 92,the rib 92 j rides on to of or against the rib structure 152 on thefilter cartridge 100 which provides slight resistance to rotation. Oncethe rib 92 i reaches the stop member 152 i, the rib 92 i snaps into therecess defined by the stop member 152 i, thus simultaneously indexingthe operator part 92 into the locked position and providing tactilefeedback. To remove the filter cartridge 100 from the housing, theoperator simply rotates each operator part 92 until the recesses 92 aalign with the tabs 154.

As can be appreciated by the above description, the complementaryconfiguration of the locking mechanisms 90 and filter cartridge tabs 154ensures that the correct filter cartridge is installed into a housingthat is actually designed to receive the filter cartridge. If an attemptis made to install a filter cartridge that does not include the tabs154, the filter cartridge 100 will fail to enable the lock mechanisms tomove to the locked position, thus alerting the installer that anincorrect filter cartridge is installed. Although the tabs and recessesare shown as having a particular shape, other shapes are possible.Different shapes may be used for different air cleaner sizes or designs,thus ensuring the correct filter cartridges are installed appropriatehousings throughout an entire product line.

Mounting Arrangement 30

Referring to FIGS. 78-93 , details of the mounting arrangement 30 areshown in greater detail. The mounting arrangement 30 is shown as beinginstalled on the main housing body 20 at FIGS. 1 and 3-8 . As shown, themounting arrangement 30 is shown as including a pair of mountingstructures 32 that are mounted to the housing body 20 in a spaced apartand parallel arrangement. The mounting arrangement 30 is also shown asincluding four mounting clips 34. Either of the mounting clips 34 or themounting structures 32 can be independently used to mount the aircleaner 10 to a supporting structure with the mounting clips 34providing a fixed-distance mounting arrangement and the mountingstructures providing an adjustable mounting system. Where both mountingstructures 32 and mounting clips 34 are provided, an installer ordesigner can utilize whichever mounting approach best suits a particularapplication. As the mounting structures 32 and mounting clips 34 can beindependently used to mount the air cleaner 10 to a supportingstructure, an air cleaner 10 can be provided with only the mountingstructures 32 or only the mounting clips 34.

As can be seen at FIGS. 9 and 12 , the housing body 20 defines a pair ofchannels defined by sidewalls 25 a which receive the mounting structures32. The housing body is also provided with end walls 25 b extendingacross the sidewalls 25 a at each end. The end walls 25 b are shown asincluding apertures 25 c such that the end walls can receive mountingclips 34. The mounting clips 34 form a portion of the mountingarrangement. The housing body 20 is also shown as including apertures 25d for receiving a portion of the mounting structures 32 such that themounting structures 32 can be secured to the housing body 20.

With reference to FIGS. 78-91 , features of the mounting structures 32are shown in greater detail. In one aspect, each mounting structure 32includes a first channel part 32 a that receives a second channel part32 b. As can be most easily seen at FIG. 82 , the second channel part 32b has a width or dimension that matches the head 32 d of a bolt 32 cthat allows the bolt to slide along the length of the second channelpart 32 b but prevents the bolt from rotating. The first channel part 32a has a central opening 32 e through which the head 32 d can pass suchthat the head can be received by the second channel part 32 b. The firstchannel part 32 a additionally has lateral walls 32 f that extendtowards each other to secure the opposite side of the bolt head 32 d.Thus, a bolt 32 c can be received into the first channel part 32 a andthen into the second channel part 32 b such that the bolt 32 c isslidably secured between the second channel part 32 b and the walls 32f. With such a configuration, the position of the bolts 32 c can beeasily adjusted to align with a given mounting structure. The bolts 32 care prevented from sliding off either end of the channel parts 32 a, 32b by the end walls 25 b on the housing body 20.

The second channel part 32 b is shown as including an extension part 32g at one end that is received by the housing body slots 25 d and anextension part 32 h at the other end that can engage with or interactwith the mounting clip 34. The mounting structure 32 can also beprovided with a spacer, fill, or interfence member 32 k (e.g. collapsedpolymeric tube or moon-shaped polymeric tube) that can be received bythe first and second channel parts 32 a, 32 b that can aid in holdingthe bolts 32 c in a fixed position and dampen potential vibration. Inone aspect, the first channel part 32 a can be provided with apertures32 f that receive tabs 32 g of the second channel part 32 b to aid insecuring the first and second channel parts 32 a, 32 b together.

Referring to FIGS. 92-98 , the retaining clip 34 is shown in greaterdetail. In one aspect, the retaining clip 34 includes a base portion 34a, a head portion 34 b extending from the base portion 34 a, and a clipportion 34 c extending from the base portion 34 a. The head portion 34 bincludes an aperture 34 d, which can be a threaded opening for receivinga mounting bolt. The mounting clip 34 is installed onto the end wall 25b such that the head portion 34 b extends through the aperture 25 c andsuch that the end wall 25 b is clipped between the base portion 34 a andthe clip portion 34 c. The retaining clip 34 is further provided with asnap member 34 e that snaps into the recess 25 c when the clip 34 isinstalled such that the clip 34 is retained onto the end wall 25 b via asnap-fit type connection. The clip member 34 can also be provided withprotrusions 34 f that can snap into recesses formed in the housing body20 to further secure the clip member 34.

Positioning Arrangement 70

Referring to FIGS. 3A, 3B, 6B, 6C, and 6D, it can be seen that the aircleaner 10 is provided with a positioning arrangement 70 disposed withina well area 27 of the housing body 20. In one aspect, the well area 27is defined by a pair of sidewall portions 27 a and a sidewall portion 27b. The portions 27 a, 27 b are a part of the housing body sidewall 22 a.The positioning arrangement 70 is designed to ensure that a properfilter cartridge 100 is installed into the air cleaner 10. In oneaspect, the positioning arrangement creates an internal profile withinthe housing body 20 that requires the filter cartridge 100 to have amatching and complementarily shaped profile in order to be receivedfully into the housing body 20. In the embodiment shown, the positioningarrangement 70 is formed by a pair of arrays with spaced apart ribs 29 bextending from the housing body sidewall 22 a to pin extensions 29 a. Inthe example shown, five pins 29 a and ribs 29 b are shown on each sideof the housing body interior region 20 i. The pins 29 a and ribs 29 bare each configured to receive and retain an insert module 72. In theembodiment shown, three insert modules 72 are mounted onto the pins 29 aand ribs 29 b on each side of the housing body 20. As should beappreciated, the positioning arrangement 70 is modular in nature andthus can be customized to achieve a number of different internalprofiles to fit a particular application. For example, one, two, four,or all five insert modules 72 could be installed on each side. Whereless than five insert modules 72 are utilized, the spacing between theinsert modules 72 can likewise be customized (e.g. spaced on every otherpin 29 a, etc.). Also, the number and arrangement of the insert modules72 can be different from one side of the housing body 20 to the other.Once the desired number and arrangement of insert modules 72 isselected, the filter cartridge 100 can then be designed such that nopart of the filter cartridge interferes with the insert modules 72. Anasymmetrical arrangement (side-to-side or front-to-back) can be selectedsuch that it is impossible to inadvertently insert the filter cartridge100 in the reverse direction, thus ensuring that even a properlyselected filter is properly installed.

With reference to FIG. 6B, an example filter cartridge 100 profileportion or extension 100 a is shown in which portions of the filtercartridge profile 100 a extend between the open spaces defined betweenthe insert modules 72 and in which no portion of the filter cartridgeprofile 100 a extends into a space occupied by an insert module 72.Thus, it is illustrated that a filter cartridge 100 must have a profilegenerally corresponding to profile 100 a in order to be fully receivedwithin the interior region 20 i of the housing body 20 in the properorientation. In the embodiment shown, the profile extension 100 a is aprotrusion integrally formed with the filter cartridge shell 120.

FIGS. 99-105 a show an example insert module 72 which includes a mainbody 72 a a recess 72 b for receiving the pin 29 a and a recess 72 c forreceiving the rib 29 b. The insert module 72 b is also shown asincluding a profile head 72 d which can act as an interference surfacefor an improperly selected and/or installed filter cartridge 100. Theinsert module 72 can also be provided with a pin structure 72 e disposedwithin the recess 72 b that can be received by a corresponding opening27 c in the pins 29 b.

Aspects of the Disclosure

Various aspects of the disclosure are further described in the followingparagraphs.

A side-load air filter cartridge comprising: a media pack configured forinstallation into a side opening of an air cleaner housing, the mediapack extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet end and anoutlet end, the media pack defining an outer perimeter; a sealarrangement operatively positioned with respect to the media pack, theseal arrangement defining an axial seal surface facing towards theoutlet flow end, a portion of which is arranged at an oblique angle tothe longitudinal axis; and a first connection member configured toengage with a lock mechanism of the air cleaner to secure the media packwithin the air cleaner housing, the first connection member beingoperably connected to the media pack with a portion of the firstconnection member extending axially beyond the media pack outlet flowend. In one example, the connection member extends axially beyond all ora portion of the axial seal surface.

Any of the side-load filter cartridges described herein, furtherincluding a second connection member located opposite the firstconnection member and proximate the first or second axial end.

Any of the side-load filter cartridges described herein, wherein one orboth of the first and second connection members is aligned with a firstplane, the first plane extending through the media pack longitudinalaxis and defining an axis of symmetry of the media pack.

Any of the side-load filter cartridges described herein, wherein thefirst connection member has an axis of symmetry aligned with an axis ofsymmetry of the media pack.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein oneor both of the first and second connection members each include anarc-shaped sidewall.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, whereineach arc-shaped sidewall extends orthogonally away from the media packand longitudinal axis.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, whereineach arc-shaped sidewall includes a detent for receiving a correspondingfeature on a lock mechanism mounted to the housing.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, furtherincluding at least one tab structure for interacting with acorresponding lock mechanism associated with the housing.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein theat least one tab structure extends in a direction parallel to thelongitudinal axis.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein theat least one tab structure includes at least two tab structures thatextend away from each other such that a first tab structure extendsaxially beyond the media pack outlet end and a second tab structureextends axially beyond the media pack inlet end.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, furthercomprising a circumferential shell surrounding the media pack outerperimeter.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, furthercomprising a cover portion.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein thecover portion is integrally formed with the circumferential shell.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein oneor both of the first and second connection members are provided on thecover portion.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein tabstructures are provided on the cover portion.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein thecover portion includes a handle for installing and removing the mediapack from an air cleaner housing, the handle being external to the mediapack outer perimeter.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein thehandle extends in a direction parallel to the media pack longitudinalaxis.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein thehandle is integrally formed with the cover portion.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein themedia pack has a first length and the handle has a second length that isa majority of the first length.

A side-load air filter cartridge comprising: a media pack configured forinstallation into a side opening of an air cleaner housing, the mediapack extending along a longitudinal axis and defining an outerperimeter; and a seal arrangement operatively positioned with respect tothe media pack, the seal arrangement defining an axial seal surfacefacing generally towards the inlet flow end or outlet flow end, aportion of which is arranged at an oblique angle to the longitudinalaxis; wherein a second segment of the axial seal surface deviates awayfrom a first segment of the axial seal surface in an axial directionsuch that the axial seal surface second segment falls outside of a planeor curved surface defined by the axial seal surface first segment.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein theoblique angle is between 91 and 135 degrees.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein theoblique angle is 100 degrees.

Any of the side-load filter cartridges described herein, wherein theaxial seal surface first segment is disposed at a first oblique angleand the axial seal surface second segment is disposed at a secondoblique angle, wherein the second oblique angle is less than the firstoblique angle.

Any of the side-load filter cartridges described herein, wherein thefirst oblique angle is between 91 and 135 degrees and the second obliqueangle is between 60 and 70 degrees.

Any of the side-load filter cartridges described herein, wherein thefirst oblique angle is 100 degrees and the second oblique angle is 152degrees.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, whereinboth the first and second segments of the seal arrangement are disposedat an oblique angle to the media pack outlet end.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein theaxial seal surface second segment is aligned along a second plane thatis disposed at an oblique angle to the first plane.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein thefirst segment of the seal arrangement crosses a plane defined by themedia pack outlet end.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein oneor both of the axial seal surface first and second segments has a curvedprofile shape.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein oneor both of the axial seal surface first and second segments has a linearprofile.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein theaxial seal surface first and second segments are planar and are joinedby an intermediate radiused portion.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein theaxial seal surface first segment defines a majority of a total length ofthe axial seal surface.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein theseal arrangement is injection molded.

Any of the side-load filter cartridges described herein, furthercomprising: a circumferential shell surrounding at least a portion ofthe media pack outer perimeter; wherein at least a portion of the sealarrangement is disposed about the circumferential shell.

Any of the side-load filter cartridges described herein, furthercomprising: a seal support flange circumscribing at least a portion ofthe circumferential shell; wherein the seal arrangement is supported bythe seal support flange.

Any of the side-load filter cartridges described herein, wherein theseal arrangement is injection molded onto the seal support flange.

Any of the side-load filter cartridges described herein, wherein themedia pack is fluted media.

Any of the side-load filter cartridges described herein, wherein thefirst seal arrangement circumscribes at least a portion of the mediapack outer perimeter.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, furtherincluding a handle for installing and removing the media pack from anair cleaner housing, the handle being external to the media pack outerperimeter.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein thehandle extends in a direction parallel to the media pack longitudinalaxis.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein thehandle is integrally formed with a cover portion.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein themedia pack has a first length and the handle has a second length that isa majority of the first length.

A side-load air filter cartridge comprising: a media pack configured forinstallation into a side opening of an air cleaner housing, the mediapack extending along a longitudinal axis and defining an outerperimeter; and a first seal arrangement operatively positioned withrespect to the media pack and defining a first axial seal surface; and asecond seal arrangement operatively positioned with respect to the mediapack and defining a second axial seal surface, wherein the second axialseal surface faces generally away from the first axial seal surface;wherein a distance between corresponding axially opposite first segmentsof the first and second axial seal surfaces increases at a first ratealong a length of the first segments and wherein a distance betweencorresponding axially opposite second segments of the first and secondaxial seal surfaces increases at a second rate along a length of thesecond segments, wherein the second rate is different than the firstrate.

A side-load air filter cartridge comprising: a media pack configured forinstallation into a side opening of an air cleaner housing, the mediapack extending along a longitudinal axis and defining an outerperimeter; and a first seal arrangement operatively positioned withrespect to the media pack and defining a first axial seal surfaceopposite a first seal support flange supporting the first sealarrangement; and a second seal arrangement operatively positioned withrespect to the media pack and defining a second axial seal surfaceopposite a second seal support flange supporting the second sealarrangement, wherein the second axial seal surface faces generally awayfrom the first axial seal surface; wherein the media pack extendsaxially beyond at least a portion of one or both of the first and secondaxial seal surfaces.

A side-load air filter cartridge comprising: a media pack configured forinstallation into a side opening of an air cleaner housing, the mediapack extending along a longitudinal axis and defining an outerperimeter; and a first seal arrangement operatively positioned withrespect to the media pack and defining a first axial seal surface; and asecond seal arrangement operatively positioned with respect to the mediapack and defining a second axial seal surface, wherein the second axialseal surface faces generally away from the first axial seal surface;wherein the media pack extends axially beyond at least a portion of oneor both of the first and second axial seal surfaces.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein thefirst seal arrangement first segment is disposed at a first obliqueangle to the second seal arrangement first segment.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein thefirst oblique angle is between 5 and 20 degrees.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein thefirst axial seal surface first segment is disposed in a non-parallelrelationship with the first axial seal second segment.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein thesecond axial seal surface first segment is disposed in a non-parallelrelationship with the second axial seal second segment.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein thefirst and second axial seal surface first d segments are disposed at anoblique angle to the media pack outlet end.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein thefirst oblique angle is between 10 and 20 degrees.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein thefirst oblique angle is 10 degrees.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein thefirst segment of one or both of the first and second seal arrangementscrosses a plane defined by the media pack inlet or outlet end.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein oneor both of the axial seal surface first and second segments of one orboth of the first and second seal arrangements defines a curved surface.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein oneor both of the axial seal surface first and second segments of one orboth of the first and second seal arrangements defines a planar surface.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein theaxial seal surface first and second segments of one or both of the firstand second seal arrangements are joined by an intermediate radiusedportion.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein theaxial seal surface first segment of one or both of the first and secondseal arrangements is aligned along a first plane and the axial sealsurface second segment of one or both of the first and second sealarrangements is disposed in a non-parallel relationship with the firstportion.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein theaxial seal surface second segments of one or both of the first andsecond seal arrangements defines a curved surface.

Any of the side-load filter cartridges described herein, furthercomprising: a first seal support flange circumscribing at least aportion of the circumferential shell; wherein the first seal arrangementis supported by the first seal support flange.

Any of the side-load filter cartridges described herein, wherein thefirst seal arrangement is injection molded onto the seal support flange.

Any of the side-load filter cartridges described herein, furthercomprising: a first seal support flange circumscribing at least aportion of the circumferential shell; a second seal support flangecircumscribing at least a portion of the circumferential shell; whereinthe first seal arrangement is supported by the first seal support flangeand the second seal arrangement is supported by the second seal supportflange.

Any of the side-load filter cartridges described herein, wherein thefirst and second seal arrangements are respectively injection moldedonto the first and second seal support flanges.

Any of the side-load filter cartridges described herein, wherein themedia pack is fluted media.

Any of the side-load filter cartridges described herein, wherein one orboth of the first and second seal arrangements circumscribe at least aportion of the media pack outer perimeter.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, furtherincluding a handle for installing and removing the media pack from anair cleaner housing, the handle being external to the media pack outerperimeter.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein thehandle extends in a direction parallel to the media pack longitudinalaxis.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein thehandle is integrally formed with a cover portion.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein themedia pack has a first length and the handle has a second length that isa majority of the first length.

An air cleaner assembly comprising: a housing defining an inlet and anoutlet, and including an access opening between the inlet and outlet; afilter cartridge received within the housing, the filter cartridgecovering the access opening; a lock mechanism, the lock mechanism beingmovable between an unlocked position in which the filter cartridge canbe installed and removed from the housing and a locked position in whichthe filter cartridge is secured within the housing; wherein the filtercartridge and lock mechanism include interacting features enabling thelock mechanism to be moved from the unlocked position to the lockedposition only when the filter cartridge is installed within the housing.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein theinteracting features include a tab on the filter cartridge and a lockspring mounted within the lock mechanism.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the lockspring is movable between a relaxed position and a deflected position,and wherein when the spring is in the relaxed position the lock springprevents rotation of an operator part of the lock mechanism such thatthe lock mechanism is prevented from being rotated out of the unlockedposition.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the lockspring includes a latch portion that engages with the operator part whenthe lock spring is in the relaxed position.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the latchportion engages with a side edge of the operator part when the lockspring is in the relaxed position.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein when the tabof the filter cartridge moves the lock spring to the deflected positionwhen the filter cartridge is fully installed within the housing.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the lockmechanism includes two lock mechanisms.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the lockmechanism includes a rotatable operator part that engages with a portionof the filter cartridge when the lock mechanism is in the lockedposition.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, further including ahandle for installing and removing the media pack from the air cleanerhousing, the handle being external to the media pack outer perimeter.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the handleextends in a direction parallel to the media pack longitudinal axis.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the handleis integrally formed with a cover portion.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the mediapack has a first length and the handle has a second length that is amajority of the first length.

A lock mechanism for securing an air filter cartridge within an aircleaner housing, the lock mechanism comprising: a base part configuredfor mounting to a housing of the air filter cartridge; an operator partrotatably mounted to the base part, the operator part being rotatablebetween an unlocked position and a locked position; and a lock springmounted to the base part, the lock spring being movable between arelaxed position and a deflected position, wherein when the lock springis in the relaxed position, the operator part is prevented from rotatingto the locked position from the unlocked position.

Any of the lock mechanisms described herein, wherein the operator partdefines a recess area for receiving a tab portion of the filtercartridge for moving the lock spring from the relaxed position to thelocked position.

Any of the lock mechanisms described herein, wherein a portion of thelock spring extends into the operator part recess area.

Any of the lock mechanisms described herein, wherein the lock springincludes a latch portion that engages with the operator part when thelock spring is in the relaxed position.

Any of the lock mechanisms described herein, wherein the latch portionengages with a side edge of the operator part when the lock spring is inthe relaxed position.

Any of the lock mechanisms described herein, further comprising aretaining ring securing the operator part to the base part.

Any of the lock mechanisms described herein, wherein the operator partincludes a stem portion extending through the base part, and wherein theretaining ring is mounted to the stem to secure the operator part to thebase part.

Any of the lock mechanisms described herein, wherein the base partincludes mounting features for securing the base part to the air cleanerhousing.

Any of the lock mechanisms described herein, wherein the lock mechanismincludes a pair of lock springs.

Any of the lock mechanisms described herein, wherein the lock mechanismincludes a pair of recessed areas.

An air cleaner assembly comprising: a housing defining an inlet and anoutlet, and including an access opening between the inlet and outlet; afilter cartridge received within the housing, the filter cartridgeincluding a cover part that covers the access opening, the cover partincluding a tab structure; and a lock mechanism comprising: a base partmounted to the housing of the air filter cartridge; an operator partrotatably mounted to the base part, the operator part being rotatablebetween an unlocked position and a locked position; and a lock springmounted to the base part, the lock spring being movable between arelaxed position and a deflected position, wherein when the lock springis in the relaxed position, the operator part is prevented from rotatingto the locked position from the unlocked position.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the operatorpart includes a stem portion received in a central aperture of the basepart, and wherein the operator part is secured to the base part by aretaining ring mounted to the stem portion.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the operatorpart defines a recess area for receiving the tab structure of the filtercartridge, wherein the tab structure moves the lock spring from therelaxed position to the locked position when the filter cartridge isinstalled within the housing.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the lockspring includes a latch portion that engages with the operator part whenthe lock spring is in the relaxed position.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the lockmechanism includes a pair of lock springs.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the lockmechanism includes a pair of recessed areas.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, further including ahandle for installing and removing the media pack from the air cleanerhousing, the handle being external to the media pack outer perimeter.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the handleextends in a direction parallel to the media pack longitudinal axis.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the handleis integrally formed with a cover portion.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the mediapack has a first length and the handle has a second length that is amajority of the first length.

A filter housing comprising: a main body extending between a first endand a second end, the main body defining an access opening between thefirst and second ends, the access opening being for receiving a filtercartridge, the main body having a first flange located at the outletend; and an outlet body extending between a base end and an outlet end,the outlet body having an outlet body flange proximate the base end,wherein the outlet body is connected to the main body such that theoutlet body flange is adjacent the main body first flange with the firstflange being located between the outlet body flange and the outlet bodyoutlet end.

Any of the filter housings described herein, wherein the outlet body isconnected to the main body with a snap-fit connection.

Any of the filter housings described herein, wherein the outlet bodydefines a first sealing surface against which a filter cartridgedisposed within the main body can form a seal.

Any of the filter housings described herein, wherein the outlet bodydefines a first seal flange defining the first seal surface for forminga first seal with the filter cartridge.

Any of the filter housings described herein, further comprising: a mainbody second flange located at the inlet end; an inlet body extendingbetween a base end and an inlet end, the inlet body having an inlet bodyflange proximate the base end, wherein the inlet body is connected tothe main body such that the inlet body flange is adjacent the main bodysecond flange with the second flange being located between the inletbody flange and the outlet body inlet end.

Any of the filter housings described herein, wherein the inlet body isconnected to the main body with a snap-fit connection.

Any of the filter housings described herein, wherein the inlet bodydefines a second seal flange defining a second seal surface for forminga second seal with a filter cartridge housed within the main body.

A filter housing comprising: a main body extending between a first endand a second end, the main body defining an access opening between thefirst and second ends, the access opening being for receiving a filtercartridge, the main body having a first flange located at the inlet end;and an inlet body extending between a base end and an inlet end, theinlet body having an inlet body flange proximate the base end, whereinthe inlet body is connected to the main body such that the inlet bodyflange is adjacent the main body first flange with the second flangebeing located between the inlet body flange and the outlet body inletend.

Any of the filter housings described herein, wherein the inlet body isconnected to the main body with a snap-fit connection.

Any of the filter housings described herein, wherein the inlet bodydefines a first sealing surface against which a filter cartridgedisposed within the main body can form a seal.

Any of the filter housings described herein, wherein the inlet bodydefines a first seal flange defining the first seal surface for forminga first seal with the filter cartridge.

Any of the filter housings described herein, further comprising: a mainbody second flange located at the inlet end; an outlet body extendingbetween a base end and an outlet end, the outlet body having an outletbody flange proximate the base end, wherein the outlet body is connectedto the main body such that the outlet body flange is adjacent a mainbody second flange with the second flange being located between theoutlet body flange and the outlet body outlet end.

Any of the filter housings described herein, wherein the outlet body isconnected to the main body with a snap-fit connection.

Any of the filter housings described herein, wherein the outlet bodydefines a second sealing surface against which a filter cartridgedisposed within the main body can form a seal.

Any of the filter housings described herein, wherein the outlet bodydefines a second seal flange defining the second seal surface forforming a second seal with the filter cartridge.

An air cleaner housing comprising: a main body extending between a firstend and a second end, the main body defining an access opening betweenthe first and second ends, the access opening being for receiving afilter cartridge, the main body having a first flange located at theoutlet end; an outlet body extending between a base end and an outletend, the outlet body having an outlet body flange proximate the baseend, wherein the outlet body is connected to the main body such that theoutlet body flange is adjacent the main body first flange with the firstflange being located between the outlet body flange and the outlet bodyoutlet end; and an inlet body extending between a base end and an inletend, the inlet body having an inlet body flange proximate the base end,wherein the inlet body is connected to the main body such that the inletbody flange is adjacent the main body second flange with the secondflange being located between the inlet body flange and the outlet bodyinlet end.

Any of the air cleaner filter housings described herein, wherein theinlet body and the outlet body are connected to the main body withsnap-fit connections.

Any of the air cleaner filter housings described herein, wherein theoutlet body defines a first sealing surface against which a filtercartridge disposed within the main body can form a first seal and theinlet body defines a second sealing surface against which the filtercartridge can form a second seal.

Any of the air cleaner filter housings described herein, wherein theoutlet body defines a first seal flange defining the first seal surfaceand the inlet body defines a second seal flange defining the second sealsurface.

Any of the air cleaner filter housings described herein, wherein theinlet body includes a precleaner air separator and the outlet body isconfigured to house a secondary filter cartridge.

An air cleaner assembly comprising: a housing defining an inlet and anoutlet, and including an access opening between the inlet and outlet; anair filter cartridge operably installed within the housing; and a pairof mounting arrangements located on an exterior side of the housing,wherein each of the pair of mounting arrangements slidably retains atleast one mounting bolt.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the housingdefines a pair of channel structures, wherein each of the pair ofmounting arrangements is installed within one of the pair of channelstructures.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein each of thepair of mounting arrangements includes a first channel part and a secondchannel part, wherein the second channel part is received within thesecond channel part.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the firstchannel part includes a flange portions that retains a head of the atleast one mounting bolt within the mounting structure.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the secondchannel part includes sidewalls that prevent the head of the at leastone mounting bolt from rotating with respect to the mounting structure.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the firstchannel part flange portions of each of the pair of first channel partsdefine an opening for receiving the head of the at least one mountingbolt.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein each of thepair of mounting arrangements includes an elastic elongate spacerpositioned within the second channel part, the spacer being forretaining the position of the at least one mounting bolt and fordampening vibration between the at least one mounting bolt and themounting structure.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the at leastone mounting bolt includes a pair of mounting bolts.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, further including aplurality of mounting clips secured to the pair of channel structures,the plurality of mounting clips being for providing a fixed mountingposition for the air cleaner assembly.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein each of theplurality of mounting clips includes a threaded connection for receivinga mounting bolt.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein each of theplurality of mounting clips is attached to the housing with a snap-fitconnection.

An air cleaner assembly comprising: a housing defining an inlet and anoutlet, and including an access opening between the inlet and outlet; afilter cartridge received within an interior region of the housing, thefilter cartridge defining a insertion profile portion; and a positioningarrangement located within an interior of the housing, the positionarrangement defining an interior profile having a complementary shape tothe insertion profile portion of the filter cartridge, wherein thefilter cartridge can only be fully inserted into the interior region ofthe housing when the filter cartridge is oriented in a single direction.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein thepositioning arrangement includes two positioning arrangements and thefilter cartridge insertion profile portion includes two profileportions.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, further including ahandle for installing and removing the media pack from the air cleanerhousing, the handle being external to the media pack outer perimeter.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the handleextends in a direction parallel to the media pack longitudinal axis.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the handleis integrally formed with a cover portion.

Any of the air cleaner assemblies described herein, wherein the mediapack has a first length and the handle has a second length that is amajority of the first length.

Methods of making and using an air cleaner assembly or a filtercartridge, such as any of the embodiments of air cleaner assemblies orfilter cartridges shown or described herein.

An access cover for securing an air filter cartridge within an aircleaner housing, the cover comprising: a main body extending between afirst axial end and a second axial end and between an exterior side andan interior side, the interior side being adapted to exert a closingforce onto the air filter cartridge; a first connection member operablyconnected to the access cover main body, wherein the first connectionmember is located proximate the main body first axial end, theconnection member interacting with a lock mechanism of the air cleanerhousing to fix the axial position of the main body with respect to thehousing and to generate the closing force when the access cover issecured to the air cleaner housing by the first connection member.

Any of the access covers described herein, further including a secondconnection member located opposite the first connection member proximatethe second axial end.

Any of the access covers described herein, wherein one or both of thefirst and second connection members are integrally formed with the mainbody.

Any of the access covers described herein, wherein one or both of thefirst and second connection members each include an arc-shaped sidewall.

Any of the access covers described herein, wherein each arc-shapedsidewall extends orthogonally away from the media pack and longitudinalaxis.

Any of the access covers described herein, wherein each arc-shapedsidewall includes a detent for receiving a corresponding feature on alock mechanism mounted to the housing.

Any of the access covers described herein, wherein one or both of thefirst and second connection members each include a tab structure forinteracting with a corresponding lock mechanism associated with thehousing.

Any of the access covers described herein, wherein one or both of thetab structures of the first and second connection members extend in adirection parallel to the longitudinal axis.

Any of the access covers described herein, wherein the tab structures ofone or both of the first and second connection members extend away fromeach other such that a first tab structure extends axially beyond themedia pack outlet end and a second tab structure extends axially beyondthe media pack inlet end.

Any of the access covers described herein, wherein the tab structures ofone or both of the first and second connection members each include apair of axially extending parallel tabs.

Any of the access covers described herein, wherein each arc-shapedsidewall is at least partially supported by one of the tab structures.

Any of the access covers described herein, wherein the main bodyincludes an integrally formed handle.

Any of the access covers described herein, wherein the handle extendsaxially between the pair of connection features.

Any of the access covers described herein, wherein the main body has alongitudinal axis of symmetry.

Any of the access covers described herein, wherein the main body has atransverse axis of symmetry.

A side-load air filter cartridge comprising: a media pack configured forinstallation into a side opening of an air cleaner housing, the mediapack extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet face and anoutlet face, the media pack defining an outer perimeter; a sealarrangement operatively positioned with respect to the media pack, theseal arrangement defining an axial seal surface facing towards theoutlet flow end, a portion of which is arranged at an oblique angle tothe longitudinal axis; and an access cover for securing the media packwithin an air cleaner housing, the access cover including a main bodyextending between a first axial end and a second axial end and betweenan exterior side and an interior side, wherein the access cover firstand second axial ends extend beyond the inlet and outlet faces of themedia pack and wherein the first and second interior sides extend beyondthe media pack outer perimeter to define a closure surface, wherein theclosure surface has a varying profile relative to the longitudinal axisand has a first axis of symmetry that is orthogonal to the media packlongitudinal axis.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein theaccess cover has a second axis of symmetry that is parallel to the mediapack longitudinal axis.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, furtherincluding a second connection member located opposite the firstconnection member proximate the second axial end.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein oneor both of the first and second connection members are integrally formedwith the main body.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein oneor both of the first and second connection members each include anarc-shaped sidewall.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, whereineach arc-shaped sidewall extends orthogonally away from the media packand longitudinal axis.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, whereineach arc-shaped sidewall includes a detent for receiving a correspondingfeature on a lock mechanism mounted to the housing.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein oneor both of the first and second connection members each include a tabstructure for interacting with a corresponding lock mechanism associatedwith the housing.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein oneor both of the tab structures of the first and second connection membersextend in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein thetab structures of one or both of the first and second connection membersextend away from each other such that a first tab structure extendsaxially beyond the media pack outlet end and a second tab structureextends axially beyond the media pack inlet end.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein thetab structures of one or both of the first and second connection memberseach include a pair of axially extending parallel tabs.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, whereineach arc-shaped sidewall is at least partially supported by one of thetab structures.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein themain body includes an integrally formed handle.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein thehandle extends axially between the pair of connection features.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein themain body has a longitudinal axis of symmetry.

Any of the side-load air filter cartridges described herein, wherein themain body has a transverse axis of symmetry.

An air filter cartridge comprising: a media pack configured forinstallation into an air cleaner housing, the media pack extending alonga longitudinal axis between an inlet face and an outlet face; a sealarrangement operatively positioned with respect to the media pack, theseal arrangement defining an radial seal surface; and a support framehaving an inlet end proximate the media pack inlet face and an outletend proximate the media pack outlet face, wherein the support framedefines: a perimeter portion circumscribing the media pack; a handleportion proximate the inlet end, the handle portion being for allowingan operator to install and remove the air filter cartridge into and outof the air cleaner housing; a first member of a positioning arrangementproximate the outlet end, the first member being for interacting with asecond member of the positioning arrangement located on the air cleanerhousing to fix the position of the air filter cartridge with respect tothe air cleaner housing.

Any of the air filter cartridges described herein, wherein the handleportion extends away from the perimeter portion in a radial direction.

Any of the air filter cartridges described herein, wherein the firstmember of the positioning arrangement is a slot defined within theperimeter portion, wherein the slot extends in a direction parallel tothe media pack longitudinal axis.

Any of the air filter cartridges described herein, wherein the supportframe perimeter portion, the handle portion, and the first member areintegrally formed as a single component.

Any of the air filter cartridges described herein, wherein the sealarrangement is mounted to the support frame.

Any of the air filter cartridges described herein, wherein the sealarrangement is non-planar.

Any of the air filter cartridges described herein, wherein a firstportion of the seal arrangement is proximate the media pack inlet endand a second portion of the seal arrangement is proximate the media packoutlet end.

Any of the air filter cartridges described herein, wherein the sealarrangement first portion is oppositely positioned from the handleportion on the support frame and the seal arrangement second portion isoppositely positioned from the first member of the positioningarrangement on the support frame.

Any of the air filter cartridges described herein, wherein the mediapack includes pleated media.

Any of the air filter cartridges described herein, wherein the sealarrangement includes a pair of lip seals.

Any of the air filter cartridges described herein, wherein the sealarrangement is injection molded onto the support frame.

A method of serving an air cleaner, the method including: positioningone or more lock mechanisms mounted to a housing of the air cleaner intoan unlocked position, wherein the one or more lock mechanisms areprevented from being moved from the unlocked position to a lockedposition when a filter cartridge is removed from the housing; insertinga filter cartridge into the air cleaner housing, wherein the step ofinserting the filter cartridge enables the one or more lock mechanismsto be movable from the unlocked position to the locked position; andmoving the one or more lock mechanisms into the locked position. Themethod of servicing, wherein the one or more lock mechanisms includes apair of lock mechanisms. The method of servicing, wherein the one ormore lock mechanisms includes a lock spring that prevents the one ormore lock mechanisms from moving to the locked position from theunlocked position when the lock spring is in a first position, andwherein the filter cartridge includes a component for moving the lockspring out of the first position.

The present invention has now been described with reference to severalembodiments thereof. The entire disclosure of any patent or patentapplication identified herein is hereby incorporated by reference. Theforegoing detailed description and examples have been given for clarityof understanding only. No unnecessary limitations are to be understoodtherefrom. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that manychanges can be made in the embodiments described without departing fromthe scope of the invention. Thus, the scope of the present inventionshould not be limited to the structures described herein, but only bythe structures described by the language of the claims and theequivalents of those structure

1-20. (canceled)
 21. A side-load air filter cartridge comprising: a) amedia pack configured for installation into a side opening of an aircleaner housing, the media pack extending along a longitudinal axisbetween first and second ends, the media pack defining an outerperimeter; b) a first seal arrangement operatively positioned withrespect to the media pack and being located proximate the media packfirst end, the first seal arrangement defining a first seal surface, aportion of which is arranged at an oblique angle to the longitudinalaxis; c) a second seal arrangement operatively positioned with respectto the media pack and being located proximate the media pack second end,the second seal arrangement defining a second seal surface; and d) acircumferential shell surrounding the media pack outer perimeter,wherein at least a portion of the first and second seal arrangements aredisposed about the circumferential shell.
 22. The side-load air filtercartridge of claim 21, wherein one or both of the first and second sealarrangements includes an axial sealing member.
 23. The side-load airfilter cartridge of claim 21, wherein one or both of the first andsecond seal arrangements includes a radial sealing member.
 24. Theside-load air filter cartridge of claim 21, further comprising: a) aconnection member configured to interact with a lock mechanism of theair cleaner housing to enable the lock mechanism to secure the mediapack within the air cleaner housing.
 25. The side-load air filtercartridge of claim 24, wherein the connection member is locatedproximate the first end of the media pack.
 26. The side-load air filtercartridge of claim 24, wherein the connection member has an axis ofsymmetry aligned with an axis of symmetry of the media pack.
 27. An aircleaner assembly comprising: a) a housing defining an inlet and anoutlet, and including an access opening between the inlet and theoutlet; b) the filter cartridge of claim 24 received within the housing,the filter cartridge covering the access opening; and c) the lockmechanism, the lock mechanism being movable between an unlocked positionin which the filter cartridge can be installed and removed from thehousing and a locked position in which the filter cartridge is securedwithin the housing; d) wherein the filter cartridge and the lockmechanism include interacting features enabling the lock mechanism to bemoved from the unlocked position to the locked position only when thefilter cartridge is installed within the housing.
 28. The side-load airfilter cartridge of claim 21, wherein the seal arrangement is injectionmolded onto the circumferential shell.
 29. The side-load air filtercartridge of claim 21, wherein the media pack is fluted media.
 30. Theside-load air filter cartridge of claim 21, further comprising: a) ahandle for installing and removing the media pack from the air cleanerhousing, the handle being external to the media pack outer perimeter.31. The side-load air filter cartridge of claim 30, wherein the handleextends in a direction parallel to the media pack longitudinal axis. 32.The side-load air filter cartridge of claim 30, wherein the handle isintegrally formed with the circumferential shell.
 33. A side-load airfilter cartridge comprising: a) a media pack configured for installationinto a side opening of an air cleaner housing, the media pack extendingalong a longitudinal axis between first and second ends, the media packdefining an outer perimeter; b) a first seal arrangement operativelypositioned with respect to the media pack and being located proximatethe media pack first end, the first seal arrangement defining a firstseal surface, a portion of which is arranged at an oblique angle to thelongitudinal axis; and c) a second seal arrangement operativelypositioned with respect to the media pack and being located proximatethe media pack second end, the second seal arrangement defining a secondseal surface.
 34. The side-load air filter cartridge of claim 33,wherein one or both of the first and second seal arrangements includesan axial sealing member.
 35. The side-load air filter cartridge of claim33, wherein one or both of the first and second seal arrangementsincludes a radial sealing member.
 36. The side-load air filter cartridgeof claim 33, further comprising: a) a connection member configured tointeract with a lock mechanism of the air cleaner housing to enable thelock mechanism to secure the media pack within the air cleaner housing.37. The side-load air filter cartridge of claim 36, wherein theconnection member is located proximate the first end of the media pack.38. The side-load air filter cartridge of claim 36, wherein theconnection member has an axis of symmetry aligned with an axis ofsymmetry of the media pack.
 39. The side-load air filter cartridge ofclaim 36, further comprising: a) a handle for installing and removingthe media pack from the air cleaner housing, the handle being externalto the media pack outer perimeter.
 40. An air cleaner assemblycomprising: a) a housing defining an inlet and an outlet, and includingan access opening between the inlet and outlet; b) the filter cartridgeof claim 36 received within the housing, the filter cartridge coveringthe access opening; and c) the lock mechanism, the lock mechanism beingmovable between an unlocked position in which the filter cartridge canbe installed and removed from the housing and a locked position in whichthe filter cartridge is secured within the housing; d) wherein thefilter cartridge and the lock mechanism include interacting featuresenabling the lock mechanism to be moved from the unlocked position tothe locked position only when the filter cartridge is installed withinthe housing.